Exploring the Motivation of Teachers for Knowledge Sharing in a Virtual Community of Practice

• In Event: Moscone Center North Roundtable Session 9
  In Roundtable Session: Exploring Forms of Collaboration Among Educators

Abstract

The idea of virtual community of practice (VCoP) as a tool to assist Malaysian teachers’ professional growth is still at its infancy. This study was designed to explore the motivation of teachers for knowledge sharing in a Biology Telegram Virtual Community of Practice (BTVCoP), an informal VCoP connecting biology teachers throughout the country. Through the Activity Theory (AT) framework, a content analysis of interactions in BTVCoP’s 1700 members, followed by an in-depth interview with three most active members was conducted. The interactions that occur between AT elements was found to produce a positive environment that supports strong commitment and motivation to share. However, more steps should be taken to promote interdependence so that teachers can grow to become BTVCoP contributors.

Authors

• Nadrah Binti Harith Fadzilah, University of Malaya

• Rosalind Cheong Chooi Yin, University of Malaya

• Tan Chee Yen, University of Malaya

• Kevin Stanley, University of Malaya

• Poon Tuck Seng, University of Malaya

• Meng Yew Tee, University of Malaya